Travel to Oxford

Travel to Oxford

Oxford has been a centre of culture and learning for over 1,000 years and continues to attract scholars and tourists alike. Since its only an hour away from London, Oxford is popular with Londoners getting away for the weekend, meaning this town rarely has a quiet moment. But thats what keeps things buzzing in this town, where the old meets the new, and the history simply oozes out of every nook and cranny of the city centre.

Transportation to Oxford

Most international travellers will probably fly into Heathrow Airport and take one of the convenient express buses direct from the terminal to the bus station in Oxford. For those already in London, or other regional English cities, there is excellent train and coach service every day. Driving to Oxford is easy, but once you get there, youll find that parking is nearly impossible and traffic is a headache. You can park your car at one of the Park-and-Ride lots on all sides of the city and catch a bus into the town centre, making for a much more relaxing experience.

What to see

Most of the attractions in Oxford revolve around its long history as one of the worlds great centres of higher learning. The architecture of many of the towns buildings is absolutely stunning, and the treasures contained therein attract lots of visitors. Oxford also boasts Englands oldest botanical gardens, the truly magnificent Blenheim Palace and some of the best pubs in the region. Since much of the medieval city centre is pedestrianised, its best to explore this town on foot. Just slip off of one of the busy commercial streets and youll find yourself in a calm pocket of tranquility, thanks to the dozens of colleges which are scattered around the town.

Daytrips

The Thames Valley is one of the loveliest parts of England, and well worth exploring if you have a few extra days. There are a number of historic towns nearby, and plenty of beautiful day drives through ancient countryside that looks as though it hasnt changed in the last thousand years.

Activities and leisure

Much of this town is absorbed with exercising the mind, but there are still a handful of outdoor options unique to this area. For the quintessential Oxford experience, rent a flat-bottomed boat called a punt and row yourself along the River Thames. If water isnt your thing, there is a superb network of walking and cycling trails around Oxfordshire which will let you see the countryside from a special perspective.

Safety issues

Oxford has a reputation for being a safe and orderly city. During the peak summer season, as the number of tourists greatly increases, the citys petty thieves can ply their trade with ease. It is suggested that you buy some travel insurance before your trip to ensure that any mishaps dont ruin your holiday.